If blood spills on the floor while inserting an IV catheter, which solution should the nurse use to clean it?

When cleaning up blood spills, it is essential to utilize a solution that is effective in disinfecting and ensuring the safety of the environment. Chlorine bleach is known for its strong disinfectant properties and is effective against a wide range of pathogens, including viruses and bacteria. It is commonly recommended for cleaning up bodily fluids, specifically because it can inactivate bloodborne pathogens when used appropriately.

In healthcare settings, the use of diluted bleach solutions is often the protocol for cleaning surfaces contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious materials. The concentration and contact time are crucial factors, as they determine the effectiveness of the disinfection process.

While other options may have antiseptic qualities, they are generally not effective or recommended for the cleaning of larger blood spills. For example, isopropyl alcohol is often utilized for skin antisepsis but may not be suitable for solid surfaces contaminated with blood. Chlorhexidine gluconate is primarily an antiseptic for skin disinfection rather than for cleaning spills. Iodophors, which are iodine-based antiseptics, are effective for skin disinfection but are not the best choice for cleaning blood spills due to their limited efficacy in this context.

Thus, using chlorine bleach for cleaning blood spills ensures a higher level of safety and disinfection